Tennis, while fun to play, also helps you stay healthy and fit. Plus, playing tennis offers a number of health benefits for both recreational as well as professional players. Whether you already enjoy the game or have been thinking about learning to play, let’s explore all tennis has to offer. You might be surprised to find that while many of the benefits are physical, others are not!
Cardiovascular, Muscle, and Bone Benefits
Unique among sports, tennis offers aerobic and anaerobic benefits. For example, the fast burst of movements benefit your body in a way similar to interval training having a positive impact on heart and lungs. Studies have shown tennis players have longer life expectancies than other popular sports. As a bonus, tennis is a sport which can be enjoyed by players of all ages and fitness levels, with the promise of improved muscle strength, balance, and bone health. In fact, research indicates an increase in bone strength and density among tennis players, even among those who start playing later in life. For women, deteriorating bone health is often a concern which may benefit from adding tennis to their health regimen. The movements and motion in tennis increase muscle strength, enhance endurance, and help resist fatigue which can, in turn, improve stability and mobility for older adults.
Increased Immunity
Exercise has been shown to enhance immunity by increasing the strength and efficiency of the immune system. Tennis, as a sport, is mentally and physically demanding, offering the opportunity for improved immunity. Those who play tennis often choose healthier lifestyles – selecting nutritious food, hydrating properly, making the time for rest, recovery, and sleep – all of which increase immunity and prevent illness.
Improved Coordination
Due to the nature of the sport, tennis improves timing, as well as eye hand coordination. From determining ball speed and calculating the correct contact point to direction changes and required responsiveness, tennis helps players develop balance and agility, which in turn helps prevent accidental injuries from falls.
Enhanced Cognition
Tennis is a physical sport as well as a strategic endeavor. Playing tennis requires alertness, problem solving, tactical thinking, and ingenuity. Players of the game causes the senses to ignite, increasing the ability to detect motion, speed, and timing as well as enhancing hearing and touch. Recent studies have shown enhanced cognition, and other positive effects like improved learning and social skills among children and adults who play tennis regularly.
Improved Concentration and Focus
Because tennis playing require critical thinking and problem-solving skills, concentration and focus among those who play is increased. The benefits of improved concentration and enhanced focus are well-known to aid not only in one’s studies but also in the ability to learn other languages, mathematics, and logistical endeavors.
Decreased Stress Levels
Like most sports and exercise regimens, tennis can also decrease stress levels and enhance emotional strength. Because tennis engages an individual on multiple levels – physical, social, emotional, and mental – it enhances one’s ability to manage life’s real stressors more easily, thus improving overall wellness and even increasing self-esteem.
Let’s Hit the Court!
Are you ready to explore the benefits of tennis for you and your family? At Lighthouse Point Yacht Club, we have ten perfectly maintained Har-Tru Clay Courts including three lighted courts awaiting you! Our Tennis Club offers all the amenities you would expect, plus as a club member, you will enjoy the pool, spa, gym, pro shop, restaurant, and bar onsite. In addition, you’ll find an easy camaraderie with other members during weekly events, like barbecues and parties, as well as league play, group drills, and classes. Plus, if you are just beginning to enjoy tennis, our tennis pros are ready to help!